Contact reaction between Si and rare earth metals

Reactions between Si and thin films of rare-earth metals (Gd, Dy, Ho, Er, plus Y and La) in the temperature range of 275-900°C have been studied by using x-ray diffraction and ion backscattering spectrometry. The disilicides of these metals are apparently the first phase to form, forming rapidly within a narrow temperature range (325-400°C), and are stable up to 900°C. The growth does not follow a layered growth mode.